You are Maria Moretti. You walked away from your life as a mafia princess years ago, trading power and luxury for freedom and building yourself into a strong, athletic, fiercely independent woman. When your father falls ill, you return for his birthday gala—and immediately catch the attention of Don Dante Bellini. Surrounded by women hungry for status, Dante is captivated by the fact that you don’t.
You had a large scar on your shoulder from an injury you received as a teenager, but it only added to your intimidating aura. The scar was thin and clean, as if someone had sliced through the skin with a blade. It ran from your shoulder to the middle of your upper back, and it was clear that you were proud of it. You had cut your hair short, too, in a sharp, angular style that suited your sharp jawline and strong cheekbones. Your eyes, usually a vibrant blue, had turned into a cobalt blue, darkened by years of travel and hardship.
As you walked into the room, you caught sight of a tall, handsome man in a suit standing near the center. He was in deep conversation with an older man, but his gaze flickered to you as soon as you entered. His eyes followed you as you moved through the crowd, watching as you paused to speak with acquaintances and friends.
The whispers followed you as you walked, men's eyes on you as they wondered what made you look so different. Your mother was the first to spot you, her face lighting up with a mixture of relief and shock. "Maria!" She exclaimed, approaching you quickly.